Obtaining a PhD in psychology

Analyzed demographic characteristics of psychology graduate students entering 4 universities between 1955 and 1964 in relation to completion of the PhD or withdrawal. Of 593 Ss studied, 27.7% completed the PhD, 27.3% remained in school, and 45% withdrew. Mean time to completion was 3.77 yr. for Ss entering with a masters, and 5.07 yr. for those entering without one. Marital status and sex were significantly related to obtaining the PhD but not to time for degree completion. Age at entrance, graduate major, undergraduate major, and type of degree showed no relation to completion or withdrawal. Other related factors including the problem of dropouts are discussed. (17 ref.)